Text For Citation: 01 Item/Group: 001 Hazard:

OSH ACT of 1970 Section (5)(a)(1) of the Occupational Safety and Health Act: The employer did not furnish employment and a place of employment which were free from recognized hazards that were causing or likely to cause death or serious physical harm to employees, in that employees were exposed to chemical and fire hazards from the release of anhydrous ammonia refrigeration system from improperly maintained piping and vessels: On or about 7/8/21 employees were exposed to the potential for unexpected releases of ammonia at the following locations: (a) Outside of the ammonia mechanical room the ammonia system's compressed pressure receiver exhibited peeling paint and algae growth on the bottom of the tank, the king valve neck was missing paint and exhibited surface corrosion, and portions of the piping associated with the compressed pressure receiver also exhibited surface corrosion. (b) Outside the ammonia mechanical room the ammonia system's surge drums and associated piping insulation covers were damaged and exhibited algae growth in several locations. Additionally some of ammonia piping's insulation had been damaged and some of the insulated pipe exhibited ice buildup. (c) On the roof above the ammonia mechanical room the ammonia system's high pressure receiver and associated piping exhibited significant corrosion. (d) On the upper roof (roof above freezer # 1 and to the west of the ammonia mechanical room) damaged pipe insulation and corroded piping was observed. Additionally it was noted that outer coverings on the pipe insulation had been cut to accommodate pipe supports, but not sealed to prevent water intrusion into the insulation. (e) In the AMR an overhead valve and associated piping was observed with missing paint, excessive moisture accumulation and surface corrosion.